Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)

My objective is to ensure that all of the policy and programmes are fully aligned with overall energy policy, as well as with policies for transport, environment, agriculture, enterprise, science and education. I am working in close co-operation with my colleague the Minister, Deputy Martin, to ensure that energy research and development is fully aligned to the Government's overall national research and development objectives.

The Government is forging ahead with research and development into other forms of renewable energy. Unlike the Fine Gael Party, which has clearly been sleepwalking as we have been forging ahead, the Government has commissioned and finalised the critical research——

See this speech in context